- Storing heat decouples energy generation from consumption, increasing supply security.
- Power-to-heat replaces fossil fuels with affordable, renewable electricity.
- Switching to an electricity-based heat supply cuts emissions and lowers energy costs over the long term.
Rising CO2 costs, volatile gas markets and growing regulatory pressure are forcing many industrial companies to confront a fundamental question: how can they make their heat supply future-proof, climate-neutral and economically viable? The answer lies in the ability to store heat – combined with power-to-heat technology. This approach makes it possible to harness renewable electricity efficiently for industrial heat processes, reducing costs, emissions and dependency in the long run.
Why industrial heat plays a key role in the energy transition
In many industrial processes, heat – especially process steam – is essential. Whether in food production, the chemical industry or paper manufacturing, the demand is high, and so are the requirements for temperature and availability. Today, this need is still largely met with fossil gas. That not only drives up emissions but also exposes companies to volatile energy markets and geopolitical risks – particularly given the countries from which fossil gas is primarily imported.
Switching to an electricity-based heat supply using power-to-heat technology does more than cut CO2 emissions. It also boosts resilience against external price shocks and makes energy costs more predictable in the long run.
Power-to-heat: generating and storing heat with electricity
Switching to renewable heat supply requires the use of a power-to-heat system. This technology converts electricity – ideally from the company’s own solar PV – into usable heat via an electric heating element. Its modular design allows for easy scaling and straightforward integration into existing infrastructure.
The generated heat can be fed directly into the company’s heating or steam network or temporarily stored in a thermal storage unit. In this context, storing heat means making surplus energy available precisely when it’s needed.
How can self-generated solar power be used for industrial heat?
A power-to-heat system becomes especially efficient when combined with a photovoltaic installation. Solar power generated during the day can be used directly to produce heat. If the thermal storage unit is large enough, that energy remains available even at night or during overcast conditions.
This not only increases on-site consumption but also improves the overall economics of the PV system. Grid fees and levies are reduced as well, since less electricity needs to be drawn from the public grid.
Heat storage as the key to greater flexibility
The ability to store heat is crucial for the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of a modern, future-ready energy supply. It enables companies to make use of renewable electricity when it’s most abundant and affordable – for example, during periods of strong sunshine or high wind.
By decoupling electricity generation from heat consumption, businesses not only increase their energy security but also gain financial leeway: they can tap into low wholesale electricity prices and reduce operating costs. At the same time, they support grid stability by absorbing surplus electricity and putting it to productive use.
What subsidies and benefits are available for power-to-heat in industry?
The electrification of industrial processes is also backed by policy. Subsidy programmes, tax incentives and reduced grid fees create economic benefits. In addition, power-to-heat solutions contribute to ESG targets: they improve the carbon footprint, enhance energy independence and support compliance with sustainability reporting requirements. Companies that invest early not only gain financial advantages – they also strengthen their competitive position.
Storing heat means securing the future
For industrial companies looking to make their heat supply more independent, sustainable and cost-efficient, the combination of power-to-heat and thermal storage offers a future-ready solution. Switching to electric process heat allows for the efficient use of renewable energy, improves supply security and helps stabilize costs while reducing CO2 emissions. Those who invest today in the ability to store heat are building the energy resilience that will make all the difference tomorrow.
